One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, delicious, and sure to impress, then you’ve got to try this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! This dish has quickly become a favorite in my house. It combines the bright flavors of lemon and herbs with perfectly pan-seared salmon, all cooked together with creamy orzo and fresh spinach. It’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, this dish fits right in. Plus, the one-skillet approach means less cleanup—always a win in my book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and delicious ingredients, everyone at the table will love it!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from salmon and nutrients from spinach, it’s as healthy as it is tasty.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes to wash afterward—thank you!
• Versatile Base: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping proteins!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salmon

• 4 skinless salmon fillets
• 1 tsp salt (divided)
• 1 tsp coarsely ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Orzo

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup dry orzo pasta
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

For the Finish

• 5 ounces baby spinach
• Juice from ½ lemon
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Freshly ground black pepper (for serving)
• Chili flakes (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: If salmon isn’t your favorite, try using chicken breasts or shrimp instead!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan to keep it creamy without dairy.
• Change the grain: Swap out orzo for quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor profile.

How to Make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Get your prep done before you start cooking: Grate the Parmesan cheese, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with garlic powder, sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon of salt and pepper. This step is crucial because seasoning helps enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat oil and butter over medium-high heat in a large nonstick pan or skillet. Add salmon fillets and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside. Getting a nice sear on the salmon not only locks in moisture but also creates that beautiful crust we all love.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Reduce heat to medium and add garlic and onion to the same skillet. Cook until soft and fragrant for about 2 minutes. Stir in thyme along with the remaining salt and pepper. Adding these aromatics first brings out their natural sweetness which will flavor our dish beautifully!

Step 4: Toast the Orzo

Add dry orzo to the skillet and toast it for about one minute while stirring frequently. This step adds depth of flavor as it helps enhance nutty notes in the pasta.

Step 5: Cook the Orzo

Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low, allowing it to simmer uncovered while stirring occasionally until almost al dente (about 8 minutes). This technique ensures that each grain absorbs that lovely broth flavor while cooking perfectly.

Step 6: Add Spinach & Finish Up

Stir in baby spinach and simmer until wilted for about 2 minutes. Then mix in lemon juice and Parmesan—add more broth if needed—and taste to adjust salt levels if necessary. The spinach will add vibrant color while keeping things light!

Step 7: Reheat & Serve

Return salmon to skillet for another couple of minutes until heated through. Top with freshly ground black pepper and chili flakes before serving hot! Enjoy every bite of this delightful One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo!

Pro Tips for Making One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you can make your One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo even more enjoyable!

• Prep Everything First: Having all your ingredients ready before you start cooking streamlines the process and minimizes stress. You’ll be able to focus on perfecting the dish rather than scrambling for ingredients.

• Sear the Salmon Perfectly: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the salmon. A good sear locks in the flavor and moisture of the fish, giving it a delicious golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the lemony orzo.

• Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you find that your orzo isn’t quite cooked through but has absorbed most of the broth, feel free to add a splash more liquid. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly without becoming mushy.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish as you cook! This way, you can adjust seasonings like salt or lemon juice to suit your personal preference, ensuring every bite is just right.

• Let It Rest: After everything is cooked, let your dish sit for a minute before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully for an even more satisfying dish.

How to Serve One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo

Presenting this delightful dish can enhance its appeal and make mealtime feel special. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that complements the salmon and orzo beautifully.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside for an extra zesty kick—perfect for those who love a bit more citrus!
• Cracked Black Pepper: A generous crack of black pepper on top adds not only flavor but also visual appeal, making your dish look gourmet.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Roasting asparagus with garlic brings out its natural sweetness and crunchy texture—this side is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the salmon and orzo.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients while providing a mild flavor that pairs nicely with this meal.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, feta cheese (or dairy-free alternative), and olives offers a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

Enjoy making this delicious One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo! It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating memorable meals that bring joy to your table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go! You can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the salmon and orzo into freezer-safe containers.
• Ensure there’s some space at the top of each container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave until heated through, or warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe:

Can I use different types of fish in One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

Absolutely! While salmon is a fantastic choice, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like halibut or cod. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How do I make One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply replace regular orzo pasta with a gluten-free variety. Most stores offer excellent alternatives that work just as well!

What sides pair well with One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’re looking for sides, consider a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complement it beautifully.

Can I prepare One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for a quick meal option.

Final Thoughts

I hope this One Skillet Salmon with Lemon Orzo becomes a favorite in your kitchen! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients together in one delightful dish. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you try out—I love hearing from fellow food enthusiasts! Happy cooking!